21.1.6. Structure of a Micro-Program Memory

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is a micro-programmed control unit?

   Hint

   Think about how instructions are executed.

2. 2.

   Name the three phases of instruction handling.

   Hint

   What order do these actions take place in?

3. 3.

   What does the micro-program counter (MPC) do?

   • Stores control signals
   • Points to the next instruction
   • Executes instructions

   Hint

   Think about tracking progress in a sequence.

4. 4.

   True or False: Branch decisions are always unconditional.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Recall if all branches lead the same way.

5. 5.

   Design a micro-program sequence for executing a STORE instruction. Include the essential micro instructions and branching conditions.

   Hint

   Think about how you would organize tasks to ensure they are completed efficiently.

6. 6.

   Explain how the condition checking in a micro program influences the efficiency of execution in a complex instruction set.

   Hint

   Consider how conditional paths may lengthen or shorten the overall program execution time.